LaFayette completes new hydrant project – Valley Times-News

The City of LaFayette Water Distribution Department will continue its fire hydrant installation project on Oct. 20. The project will close out the nearly year-long endeavor to replace outdated fire hydrants across the city. 

This last leg of the project will begin at 8:30 a.m. CST and is scheduled to last until the end of the business day at 5 p.m. CST. The project was advertised through social media to inform customers of an interruption in service during these hours. 

The following areas will experience an interruption in water services on Oct. 20: Martin Luther King Jr., Drive, Springfield Avenue SE, Springfield Circle SE, Hill Top Street, 2nd Place SE, 3rd Place SE, 6th Avenue SE, 7th Avenue SE, Highway 431 South, State Farm Insurance and Sanco Properties (Carwash). 

A total of 53 fire hydrants were replaced during the project, which aimed to replace older two-barrel fire hydrants with a more modern three-barrel model. According to LaFayette Water Department Superintendent Allen Garrett, the newer hydrants will improve water flow rates, assist in firefighting preparedness and provide better water pressure for other customers.

There are also other financial benefits to the project. The improved firefighting preparedness also has the potential to lower home insurance costs, according to Garrett.

The modernization project will also serve to create a more appealing aesthetic for the city of LaFayette. As the city improves and grows, the new hydrants will stand out as a sign that the city is taking a step forward in revitalization. “It’s more pleasing when you see a brand-new hydrant sitting there versus a 1940s hydrant,” Garrett said.

The interruption of service will be necessary for the project to proceed. This may cause temporary water outages, reduced water pressure and water discoloration. 

In their public notice, the City of LaFayette advised residents that discolored water is a common side effect of opening fire hydrants; it does not indicate a problem with the water system. They have also been advised not to wash light-colored clothes in the meantime if their water is stained or discolored.

City officials have assured the 210 affected customers that they will make efforts to “minimize these disruptions and ensure timely completion of the project,” according to the press release. 

Citizens have been advised that if they experience prolonged issues with their water service, they should reach out to Garrett at 334-234-1153 or contact Assistant Superintendent Micheal Turner at 334-234-1148.